The Cartographers’ Guild is a forum created by and for map makers and aficionados, a place where every aspect of cartography can be admired, examined, learned, and discussed. Our membership consists of professional designers and artists, hobbyists, and amateurs—all are welcome to join and participate in the quest for cartographic skill and knowledge.

Although we specialize in maps of fictional realms, as commonly used in both novels and games (both tabletop and role-playing), many Guild members are also proficient in historical and contemporary maps. Likewise, we specialize in computer-assisted cartography (such as with GIMP, Adobe apps, Campaign Cartographer, Dundjinni, etc.), although many members here also have interest in maps drafted by hand.

If this is your first visit, be sure to check out the FAQ. You will have to register before you can post or view full size images in the forums.

Introduction

I popped in here looking for help with "the dreaded white page" when trying to write a scenario; I figured if I could do a map, then I could work off that (something I've done in the past).

I'm exceptionally impressed with the GIMP tutorial for doing maps - having a negative artistic skill (people around me lose the ability to draw), and spent ages messing around (and failing) with AutoREALM. The tutorial has allowed me to come up with a passible map within a couple of hours...

having a negative artistic skill (people around me lose the ability to draw)

Is it like an anti-magic field that acts at a radius to prevent drawing, or are you like an art vampire, who actually drains the draw-essence from people to fill the infinite negative art void inside you?

This is an important distinction to make for your artist friends, on account of the latter being incredibly frightening.

Anyway, welcome to the forums, and I'm glad you managed to create a map after all!